We need more safe spaces. For art. For creativity. For self-expression. Spaces that encourage us to take risks, push boundaries, and challenge the norm, because that’s how progress happens.
Those sentences set the stage for a 25-minute documentary making its West Coast Premiere at the Central Coast Filmmakers Showcase during the 2026 SLO International Film Festival April 23-28.
That’s So Drag begins with printed words requesting more room for safety and diversity—which are voiced as well in eloquent ensuing footage—but what follows is also an entertaining reflection of the sheer joy, pure fun, and heartfelt pride that eight Central Coast queens can generate while delivering their goods at the Libertine Brewing Company in downtown San Luis Obispo.
Director Jenny Gosnell and director of photography Alex Raban (who also edited)—principals of local production company Room for Cream Films—use hand-held cameras to capture performances. But they wisely intermix stationary interview footage to deliver insightful commentary from the performers about who they are, what they get out of drag, and even what they want out of life.
Nala Diamond, Viola Tile, Juicy CW, Cleo Van Scarlet, Linda, Fae Fatale, Miss Gender, and Shekinah Manley are featured onstage at the Libertine, but several of them also share with us an understanding of their personal identities and philosophies, with quotes like “Putting all this on makes me feel like myself,” and “Nobody should be scared of drag queens.”
If you’ve never been to a drag show, or you are curious about the local scene, That’s So Drag gives you plenty to think about—and enjoy—for a mere 25-minute investment of your time and consideration.
The San Luis Obispo International Film Festival screening of That’s So Drag (West Coast Premiere, 25 minutes, USA, rated PG-13, in English) is scheduled as part of the festival’s Central Coast Filmmakers Showcase on Monday, April 27 at the Palm Theatre. The showcase includes nine short narrative and documentary shorts, along with The Strawberry, a feature-length narrative film.